Inspect for aftermarket devices which could affect the operation of the starting and charging systems. Inspect the easily accessible or visible system components for obvious damage or conditions which could cause a fault symptom.

The starting system includes the battery, starter motor, solenoid switch, ignition switch, inhibitor switch, connection wires and the battery cables. When the ignition key is turned to the start position, current flows and energizes the starter motor solenoid coil. The solenoid plunger and clutch shift lever are activated, and the clutch pinion engages the ring gear. The contacts close and the starter motor cranks the engine. In order to prevent damage caused by excessive rotation of the starter armature when the engine starts, the clutch pinion gear overruns.

The starter should crank the engine smoothly and steadily. If the starter engages, but cranks the engine erratically, remove it, and inspect the starter drive gear and torque converter ring gear for damage. Check the drive gear overrunning clutch for binding or slipping when the armature is rotated with the drive gear held in place. If damaged, replace the starter drive.

If the starter is not turning over the engine, check that the wire connections are fastened securely to the starter solenoid and that battery voltage (12 volts) is supplied to the starter.

The Engine Control Module (ECM)/Powertrain Control Module (PCM) controls engine cranking based on a power mode input and the status of the clutch start switch (manual transaxle) or the Park/Neutral Position (PNP) switch (automatic transaxle). With the transaxle in Park/Neutral or the clutch depressed, voltage at the ECM/PCM PNP/clutch start switch signal circuit is high. This indicates to the ECM/PCM that conditions are acceptable for cranking. When a power mode crank request is seen, the ECM/PCM grounds the starter relay coil control circuit. This energizes the coil side of the relay, which pulls the switch side of the relay closed, applying voltage to the starter S-terminal and engaging the starter solenoid.

A misadjusted PNP switch or clutch start switch may result in a starter solenoid that will not engage or click.

Inspect the following items for slow cranking condition:

Perform the Battery Inspection/Test.

Inspect the wiring for damage. Inspect all connections to the starter motor, the solenoid, the battery, and all ground connections.

Verify that the engine is not seized.

If the battery, the wiring, and the engine are functioning properly, and the engine continues to crank slowly, replace the starter motor.